China Stands with Iran in Defending Sovereignty and Security, Condemns Assassination of Hamas Chief

In a phone call on Sunday, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi expressed China's support for Iran in defending its "sovereignty, security and national dignity," according to a statement released by China's foreign ministry. The conversation took place between Wang and Iran's Acting Foreign Minister, Ali Bagheri Kani, wherein Wang reiterated China's condemnation of the assassination of Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran on July 31.

China strongly criticized the strike, stating that it violated Iran's sovereignty and posed a threat to regional stability. Haniyeh's killing, which Iran and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas blame on Israel, has raised concerns about the escalation of hostilities between Israel and Hamas, potentially engulfing the wider Middle East in conflict.

Wang emphasized that the targeted assassination of Haniyeh had a detrimental impact on the ongoing Gaza ceasefire negotiations and undermined peace and stability in the region. China firmly supports Iran's efforts to safeguard its sovereignty, security, and national dignity within the framework of international law. Additionally, China expressed its commitment to maintaining close communication with Iran to uphold regional peace and stability.

Iran has vowed to take harsh actions against Israel in response to the assassination, further heightening tensions in the region. With China offering its support to Iran, it adds an additional layer of international solidarity against any potential escalation of conflicts in the Middle East.

Although Israel has not officially claimed responsibility for the assassination, the incident has deepened concerns about the trajectory of the Israel-Hamas conflict. The international community remains vigilant as any further destabilization in the region could have far-reaching consequences.

As China strengthens its stance in supporting Iran, it sends a clear message to the international community that Beijing will not tolerate actions that violate the sovereignty and security of nations. It remains to be seen how this solidarity will impact the delicate balance of power in the Middle East and the ongoing efforts to achieve lasting peace in the region.